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Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Assessment of Social Interaction Behaviors
Published on: February 25, 2011
[Effects of new nitric oxide synthase inhibitors on spontaneous locomotor activity]
Eleonora Dzoljić1, Zorica Nesić, Radan Stojanović
1Klinicki centar Srbije, Beograd, Institut za neurologiju, Medicinski fakultet, Beograd.
Introduction:
New nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitors: 3-bromo-7-nitroindazole (3-Br-7-NI), 1-(2-trifluoromethylphenyl) imidazole (TRIM), S-methyl-L-thiocitrulline (S-Me-TC) and 7-nitroindazole (7-NI) reduce spontaneous locomotor activity in mice.
Material And Methods:
In order to elucidate central effects of NOS inhibitors on locomotor activity, the influence of 7-NI on electroencephalographic (EEG) power spectrum in rats was investigated.
Results:
7-NI reduced the EEG power density in all frequency bands in rats, suggesting a depression of the central neuronal activity. The electrophysiologic power was most reduced in the range of 7-9 Hz of the rhythmic slow activity (theta rhythm), which is in accordance with decreased locomotor activity observed following administration of NOS inhibitors.
Conclusion:
The present results indicate that nitric oxide exerts an excitatory effect on central neuronal structures involved in regulation of locomotion.
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